It is likely that at some point in our lives we will all require the help and services of a registered nurse. Someone who enjoys biking outside in the summertime might have a fall and need to have a cast for a broken arm. Or, you might be suffering from an illness that means staying in the hospital for several days. There is a nursing shortage in Canada and this is a profession that is always going to be in demand. If you're looking for a career change or just want to know a little more about what registered nurses do, here are the basics.

If you are planning on working as a nurse than you will be required to have a baccalaureate degree in nursing first. Most of the doctors working in the hospital system in Canada are self employed rather than be employed by the hospital. That means that many of the jobs that doctors might do in other countries are the responsibilities of hospital staff members in Canada. This makes nursing a challenging and diverse profession.

It is estimated that there is a nursing shortage of about 78,000 fewer people working in the profession than are really required. If you're looking at working as a law clerk than you might have to search for months before finding the right firm to work under. Nurses don't have to look far before they can find several different hospitals looking to increase their staff. The Canadian Health Act dictates the practices of nurses and allows for those who are in need of surgery or just a prescription to get the best possible care while they are in a Canadian hospital.

Like with doctors, nurses are able to specialize in different areas of medicine. If you've been hurt in an accident at a plant that makes preform bands or are in need of stitches than the first person that you will likely see in the emergency room is a nurse. They are also there in the operating room, delivery room, and helping those in intensive care. There are also many nurses working outside of the hospital system. You will find some on staff at every nursing and retirement home and some even working at resorts or on cruise ships.

Whether you're living in Toronto or a small town in Nova Scotia, it's likely that there are a few places nearby where you will find working nurses. And if you're looking for a career than there's a chance they might be looking to add some more people to that environment.